Acid Reflux: Can it be cured?
Acid reflux or GERD is an important health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. In this condition, there is reflux of stomach content high in acid into the esophagus. Reflux is prevented by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which remains tightly closed and opens when peristaltic waves herald the imminent arrival of swallowed food. When the lower esophageal sphincter becomes faulty acid reflux will result. This is called gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD.
So can you cure your acid reflux? If there is true lower esophageal incompetence, then there is no cure. In LES incompetence, you need maintenance acid suppressant treatment such as omeprazole, or if very severe or you develop secondary problems then surgical surgical intervention with fundoplication will relieve your symptoms.
There are, however, various factors that can affect the efficiency of the LES and acid reflux. Consider eliminating these factors that may impact on acid reflux before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. A lifestyle change is sometimes all you need.
Obesity can cause or contribute to GERD. It is more likely in the apple type distribution of weight. The increased bulk in the abdomen makes it difficult for the esophagus to discharge food effectively into the stomach. In addition hiatus hernia is more common in obese individuals. The LES can be weakened by a hiatus hernia. An important aspect of GERD treatment is losing weight.
Acid reflux can be caused by wearing tight fitting clothes especially if it is two sizes too small. The pressure exerted on the stomach may trigger back flow into the gullet. Your acid reflux will improve if you wear loose clothes.
Large volume of food in the stomach will put pressure on the LES and can trigger acid reflux. It has happened to us all at some time or other. The large volume also increases gastric clearance time allowing more opportunity for reflux. Eating smaller portions more frequently will counter this problem.
GERD can be affected by certain foods. Cow’s milk protein intolerance can cause esophagitis. It is called Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis. This is controlled by removing cow’s milk protein from the diet. Other foods that can affect the LES include fats, coffee, tea, alcohol, and some spices.
The lower esophageal sphincter can be affected by some drugs and result in acid reflux. Broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), tri-cyclic antidepressants ie amitryptilline and drugs for Parkinson’s disease are in this list.
Female hormones can affect GERD symptoms. In a Scandinavian Study, women on hormones had increased risk of GERD. These drugs include the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the contraceptive pill. The peristaltic waves in the esophagus can be slowed down by sedatives and tranquillisers and can affect clearance of food from the esophagus.
If you have GERD, opt for liquid medication. Certain drugs ie tetracycline are corrosive to the lining of the esophagus. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can get stuck in the esophagus. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water to wash the medication down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. It is best for GERD patients to take medication sitting up or standing and avoid lying down immediately after.
Smoking relaxes the LES and nicotine is corrosive to esophageal lining. Acid Reflux symptoms improve when you give up smoking.
Acid Reflux risk is increased by certain exercises. Competitive weightlifting and cycling can do this. Joggers can develop GERD symptoms.
If by eliminating all the risk factors, your symptoms disappear, then you have actually cured your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is a visit to your doctor.
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
Tagged with: acid reflux • acid reflux treatment • health
Filed under: Wellness
Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!
Leave a Reply